Playgroups are fun!

The reality of day-to-day caring for young children is that it’s not always as glamorous or as easy as first imagined and many new parents can feel isolated.

Modern family lifestyles and living environs have changed dramatically and this has meant a change in the ‘traditional’ support structures that used to be available for new parents.

Families may live a long way from grandparents or elders and grandparents may still be working and not readily available to help new parents. Playgroups can fill this void, because playgroups are set up and run by parents and carers sharing similar experiences.

The aim of playgroups is to encourage positive adult/child interaction and provide a stimulating environment for children to develop creatively, socially, mentally and physically, at their own pace. Playgroups are for parents with children from 0 to school age.  The playgroup provides a support base and a unique opportunity for parents to learn valuable parenting skills, together with their children.

Parents and carers stay and play with their children and also help them to play with other children.  During playgroup time, parents can share their ideas, experiences and worries, learn from each other about the best ways to care for children, support each other and make friends.

While parents chat with each other and their children, various activities are set up, such as indoor and outdoor play, messy play, music, painting and play dough.

Rachel, a new Mum to playgroup says, ‘the immediate benefit is for mums, it’s a chance to share their experiences, but it is good for the children too as they get to see other things and each other. ‘As our children grow we source different toys and activities for them to do, it is fun to see them interact and it’s nice to know you meet people from your local area who you can call on if you need.’

Your local Playgroup is only a phone call away - for a playgroup near you contact your state’s Playgroup Association.

Playgroup NSW (02) 9604 5513  

This article was first published in Australian Family Magazine, February 2004.